Obstetrics & Gynecology in Minnesota

Hirsutism

Hirsutism is defined as the excessive growth of hair on the face, chest, back, abdomen, upper arms and legs of women. Besides being a cosmetic concern, hirsutism may be a sign of an underlying hormonal disorder and a prompt evaluation for the cause of hirsutism is recommended. Excessive hair growth may be due to high levels of male hormones in the blood or increased sensitivity to the male hormones. Once a hair follicle has started to grow thicker and darker it usually can not be changed back and requires electrolysis for permanent removal.

Hirsutism is often treated with a combination of hormonal therapy to lower male hormone levels, medications that inhibit the action of male hormones at the hair follicle and cosmetic treatments such as electrolysis, shaving and bleaching and laser.